Research capacity in general practice. Opinions from the field

Area of Science:

• Primary Health Care Research
• Health Services Research
• Capacity Building in Health

Background:

• The Primary Health Care Research Evaluation and Development (PHCRED) Strategy provides funding for universities to enhance research capacity.
• The University of NSW conducted consultations with Divisions of General Practice, General Practitioners (GPs), and Community Health Services to assess current research capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the findings from consultations regarding research capacity within primary health care settings.
• To outline the implications of these findings for the ongoing implementation of the PHCRED Strategy.

Main Methods:

• Consultation with key stakeholders including Divisions of General Practice, GPs, and Community Health Services representatives.
• Assessment of current research capacity and interest in research development.

Main Results:

• Divisions reported low existing research capacity but expressed significant enthusiasm for capacity-building opportunities.
• GPs interested in research focused on clinical areas, data collection, and patient provision, rather than idea initiation.
• Community Health Services personnel showed a strong willingness to participate in research activities.

Conclusions:

• Despite perceived low research skills, there is substantial support and enthusiasm for research capacity building.
• The PHCRED Strategy's overall aim may require clarification to effectively leverage this enthusiasm and build upon existing support.
• Future efforts should consider the specific roles and interests of GPs and Community Health Services in research development.